2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1988 Opel Corsa

To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Opel Corsa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Opel Corsa would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 1988 Opel Corsa. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Corsa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1025 kg more than 1988 Opel Corsa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Opel Corsa, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 327 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Corsa. (134 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Corsa. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1988 Opel Corsa has manual transmission. 1988 Opel Corsa will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 1988 Opel Corsa
Make Mercedes-Benz Opel
Model SL Corsa
Year Released 2005 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4966 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 302 HP 100 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 461 Nm 134 Nm
Torque RPM 2700 RPM 3400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 97 mm 80 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 79.5 mm
Top Speed 250 km/hour 188 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 6.3 seconds 9.5 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1845 kg 820 kg
Vehicle Length 4540 mm 3630 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1540 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2570 mm 2350 mm